In India, a total of 7 cases of hMPV have been found since Monday. The Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a common respiratory virus that primarily affects young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. While it’s not a new virus—it was first identified in 2001—it has recently gained attention due to a slight increase in cases. Many people are curious about whether a vaccine exists for hMPV and how they can protect themselves and their loved ones from infection.

Is there a vaccine for hMPV?

As of now, there are no vaccination available for hMPV. Various researchers done under this category have investigated a variety of approaches to developing one, including live attenuated and subunit vaccinations. Yet problems such as confirming the vaccine's safety and efficacy have delayed its distribution. Although some experimental vaccines show promise in animal investigations, none have yet made it to human trials.



Why is a vaccine difficult to develop?


Developing a vaccine for hMPV is complex due to several factors:

• Incomplete immune protection: Natural infection by hMPV does not provide long-term immunity, making it harder to create a vaccine that offers that level of protection.
• Safety concerns: Early attempts at developing vaccines, such as formalin-inactivated (FI-hMPV) vaccines, were found to worsen lung inflammation in animal studies, ruling them out as safe options.
• Balancing immunity and safety: Live attenuated vaccines must strike a balance between being weak enough not to cause illness and strong enough to trigger an effective immune response.

How can we prevent hMPV without a vaccine?

Even without a vaccine, there are practical ways to reduce the risk of hMPV infection:

Regularly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

To prevent the virus from entering your body, avoid touching your face, especially your lips, nose, and eyes.

Wearing a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated areas can help reduce the transmission of respiratory viruses such as hMPV.

If you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow. Throw away used tissues immediately.

Avoid going to work, school, or public places if you or your child are sick to prevent the virus from spreading.

Your immune system can be improved by being hydrated, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep.

Read also: Is hMPV a threat on the world?

Who is most at risk?

While hMPV can affect people of all ages, certain groups are more vulnerable:

• The virus is more likely to infect infants and toddlers.
• Severe problems are more likely to occur in older persons with weakened immune systems.
• People who are receiving chemotherapy or have long-term medical conditions are particularly vulnerable.

Read further: HMPV: 5 prevention strategies everyone should know about

What should we do if infected?

The majority of hMPV infections are minor and can be treated at home with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter symptom alleviation. However, the person who is infected should seek medical assistance if symptoms worsen or if the infected person falls into a high-risk category.